Spangdahlem Air Base
Spangdahlem Air Base PCS Guide
Military Base History
Brig. Gen. Stephen Snelson, left, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander, coins Master Sgt. Victoria Jensen, right, 721st Aerial Port Squadron fleet services superintendent, at the 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing headquarters building on Ramstein Air Base, Germany, April 11, 2025....
Spangdahlem Air Base was established in the early 1950s to support NATO’s defense needs during the Cold War. Its original mission provided a forward operating location for U.S. Air Force tactical fighter units, boosting the alliance’s ability to deter Soviet aggression in Europe.
Construction began in 1951, and the base officially opened in 1953. Over the decades, Spangdahlem expanded its infrastructure to accommodate new aircraft and missions.
The base saw significant upgrades in the 1970s and 1980s, including new runways, hangars, and support facilities. These improvements allowed Spangdahlem to host advanced fighter jets and support evolving mission requirements.
Key units stationed at Spangdahlem have included the 49th Fighter-Bomber Wing, the 36th Tactical Fighter Wing, and, since 1994, the 52nd Fighter Wing. These units have flown aircraft such as the F-4 Phantom II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and A-10 Thunderbolt II.
The base played a vital role in NATO air operations, supporting missions like Operation Desert Storm, Operation Allied Force, and ongoing deployments in the Middle East.
Spangdahlem remains a strategic hub for U.S. and NATO air power in Europe. Today, it supports rapid deployment, training, and partnership missions, strengthening transatlantic security.
The base has retained its original name since establishment, with no significant official name changes recorded.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron cut concrete around craters in Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany’s flightline during a simulated Rapid Airfield Damage Recovery (RADR) scenario during Exercise Swift Saber 25 at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, April 25, 2025. Cutting the...
Major Units
52nd Fighter Wing
The 52nd Fighter Wing conducts air operations to support NATO and U.S. interests, providing combat-ready F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and personnel for rapid deployment and air superiority missions.
726th Air Mobility Squadron
The 726th Air Mobility Squadron provides air mobility support, including cargo and passenger movement, aircraft maintenance, and aerial port operations for U.S. and allied forces in Europe.
52nd Operations Group
The 52nd Operations Group directs the flying and operational support squadrons, ensuring readiness for combat and contingency operations throughout Europe and Africa.
Training Schools
Aircrew Flight Equipment Training
Overview
This course trains aircrew and support personnel on the use, inspection, and maintenance of survival and safety equipment essential for flight operations.
Course Length
1-2 weeks
Who Attends
Aircrew members and support personnel
Arrival & In-Processing
Charla Dean, 52nd Fighter Wing Sexual Assault Prevention and Response victim advocate, hands out informational bags during the first day of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, April 1, 2025. Volunteers from across the installation gathered at the...
Welcome to Spangdahlem Air Base! Arriving at a new installation can be overwhelming, but being well-prepared makes your transition smoother and faster. Review the steps below to ensure you have everything needed for a successful check-in. For more details, visit the official Spangdahlem AB website.
The main entrance to Spangdahlem Air Base is the Main Gate, located at the primary access point to the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. When entering, be ready to show a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID. All state-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for access. Security Forces conduct 100% ID checks and may perform random vehicle inspections, so have your documents ready and follow all instructions. To sponsor visitors or family members, stop at the gate or Visitor Control Center to request a pass. Sponsors must be present or submit an advance request. Always follow posted security guidelines and expect heightened measures during FPCON changes.
-
PCS Orders (multiple copies)
-
Military ID/CAC
-
Dependent/Family Member ID Cards
-
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
-
Birth Certificates for dependents
-
Social Security Cards
-
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
-
Medical/Dental Records
Spangdahlem Air Base offers a robust sponsor program to help you settle in quickly. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit directly or use the base's newcomer sponsorship request form. Your sponsor will reach out with arrival details, answer questions, and provide local insights.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 103. The center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During in-processing, you'll visit offices for Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your specific needs and appointments. Arriving early ensures you get the most out of your first day.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering guests in DBIDS, and assisting with sponsorship paperwork. For after-hours access, coordinate with your sponsor or unit in advance.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A moving contractor loads a moving truck with a service member's household goods during the permanent change of station peak-season at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. March 7, 2018. Planning an ahead will make for a more successful relocation experience.
Spangdahlem Air Base is an OCONUS (overseas) location, so your PCS process will involve a few extra steps compared to a stateside move. Once you receive your official orders, contact your local Transportation Office right away to start planning your move. You’ll choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment managed by the government or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move. Each option has unique rules and reimbursement rates—review your entitlements before deciding.
Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule, track, and manage your shipment. You’re entitled to a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help offset relocation costs and Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to cover short-term lodging while in transit. For OCONUS moves like Spangdahlem, TLE is available for up to 5 days before departure from your CONUS location, and you may also qualify for Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) upon arrival overseas. Check the latest guidance and keep all receipts for reimbursement.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) for overseas locations
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local guidance and in-processing.
- Keep passports, orders, and medical records with you during travel.
- Take photos and inventory your household goods before pack-out.
- Plan for pet travel well in advance—review EU pet import rules.
- Check weight allowances for OCONUS shipments to avoid excess costs.
- Ask about loaner furniture from the base Furnishings Management Office.
- Use the base newcomers guide for up-to-date arrival procedures.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your move through the Defense Personal Property System.
Find official rates and allowance information.
Guidance, checklists, and support for your PCS.
Estimate your DLA entitlement.
Base-specific arrival and newcomer information.
Schools & Childcare
Image Unavailable
On-Base Schools
Spangdahlem Elementary School
DoDEA elementary school located on Spangdahlem Air Base. The school offers a U.S. curriculum and provides a close-knit learning community for military children.
Spangdahlem Middle High School
DoDEA middle and high school serving grades 6 through 12 on base. The school features a range of academic and extracurricular programs tailored for military dependents.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC)
The on-base CDC provides full-day and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The center is DoD-certified and follows high safety and developmental standards.
School Age Care (SAC) Program
SAC offers before- and after-school care, as well as holiday and summer camps for school-age children. Activities focus on enrichment, homework help, and recreation.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC provides in-home care by certified providers on base. Flexible schedules and small group settings make this a popular choice for many families.
Local Schools
German Public Schools (Bitburg Area)
German public schools in the Bitburg region are known for strong academics and rigorous standards. Instruction is in German, with some schools offering international programs or English support.
St. Matthias Private School (Bitburg)
St. Matthias is a respected private Catholic school in Bitburg, offering a well-rounded curriculum and smaller class sizes. Instruction is primarily in German.
International School of Luxembourg
Highly regarded for its English-language IB curriculum, the International School of Luxembourg attracts expat and diplomatic families. The school offers strong academics and diverse extracurriculars.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Spangdahlem AB, Germany Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Comfortable seating and lounge space for passengers.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet available throughout the terminal.
Snack Bar/Vending
Light snacks, drinks, and vending machines available.
Family Room
Designated play area for children and space for families.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Spangdahlem AB, Germany, please refer to the official Air Mobility Command (AMC) website or contact the passenger terminal directly.
Information can typically be found regarding travel categories (DoD Categories I-VI), necessary documentation (e.g., CAC, leave forms, dependent IDs), and any specific local policies.
Official AMC information may be available here: Spangdahlem AB Passenger Terminal
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Ramstein Air Base, Germany
Popular for connections to the U.S. and Europe; arrive early due to high demand.
Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), USA
Bring snacks for the long flight; U.S. customs processing on arrival.
Aviano Air Base, Italy
Check seat availability in advance; bring Euros for local transportation.